They have spent years trying to marginalize soccer, put it down or stymie its growth. They have — as one Boston Globecolumnist did last weekend — made a point of telling the world they are not watching it. And when they do watch, they focus on the game's blemishes, which include bad refereeing, inattention to concussions, flopping and — at least in one player's case — biting.

Soccer is on a path to become a major presence within a decade or so. Yes, like cold fusion, that has been predicted before. But this time, the momentum looks unstoppable.

The children of a generation of soccer moms and dads are growing up. And soccer offers something unique: a chance to root for the USA, an underdog USA no less, on a regular basis.

For those who see soccer as un-American, note the irony. Each year, World Cup or no, Team USA plays 10 to 20 often riveting games.

Last year, for instance, the team fought through World Cup qualifying, punching its ticket to Brazil with an exhilarating 2-0 victory over Mexico in Columbus, Ohio. Two games later, it provided a bonus by kicking Panama out of the Cup. That put Mexico in, prompting the Mexican broadcaster to shout in English: "We love you! We love you for ever and ever! God bless America!"

And that's just the men. Next year will see the Women's World Cup, where Team USA has become a powerhouse.

On the business front, money has been flooding into soccer at an amazing rate. Recent U.S. television contracts — for Major League Soccer, the World Cup, other tournaments, even the English Premier League — have come in at many multiples of their predecessors.

Savvy investors, including several NFL owners, have bought or inherited MLS franchises. And the Minnesota Vikings' Zygi Wilf wants to join the club.

Regardless of Thursday's outcome in Brazil, it's time to stop trying to stem soccer's rise and see it for what the world has long recognized it to be — a thrilling, if sometimes flawed, game.

USA TODAY's editorial opinions are decided by its Editorial Board, separate from the news staff. Most editorials are coupled with an opposing view — a unique USA TODAY feature.